Lemon Route

One Journey, 50 States

The Lemon Route a whirlwind van life journey across America.

The Penalty Box

We just quit our jobs to travel to all 50 states in a van on what we’re calling the Lemon Route. Every time we break a rule or hit a milestone, we draw a lemon from the Penalty Box punishments or rewards you send in.

Rule 1

Sleep in a Class B van

The only way to check off a state is by sleeping in a Class B van. It might be Mr. Lemon, something brand new or one of yours.

Rule 2

One free night in every state

We must sleep for free at least one night in every single state.

Rule 3

Find a “lemon moment”

Every state needs a lemon moment we hunt down something lemon-themed, or life throws us one of its own.

Penalty Box toolbox

When do we pull a lemon?

Pull a lemon when you either break a core rule or hit a community milestone.

Break a core rule
  • Sleep in a Class B van
    Core rule
  • One free night in every state
    Core rule
  • Find a “lemon moment”
    Core rule
Hit a community milestone
  • 1,000 new subscribers
    On the channel
  • 1,000 likes
    On the latest video
  • 1,000 comments
    On the latest video

Sour and Sweet Spins

Punishments and rewards from the Penalty Box.

Sour Spins (Punishments)

  • 😬
    Sour Bite
    Lemon Sandwich: bread, mayo, lemon slices. Bon appétit.
  • 🤢
    Rotten Roulette
    Eat at the lowest-rated restaurant in town.
  • 🔁
    Bed Lemon Swap
    Switch beds for one night, no takebacks.
  • Campground of Doom
    Stay at the lowest-rated RV park nearby.
  • 🤐
    Silent Squeeze
    No music, no podcasts, no talking for the next leg of driving.
  • 🚫🚗
    Bob can't drive today
    Hillary's got the wheel, no excuses.
  • Gas Station Gourmet
    Dinner comes only from a gas station or truck stop.
  • 🐢
    No driving over 55 MPH
    Enjoy the slow life.
  • 🧭
    Lost Lemons
    Navigate the day without GPS: paper maps, road signs, or asking strangers only.
  • 🗣️
    When Life Gives You Lemons
    Do whatever the next person you meet suggests.

Sweet Spins (Rewards)

  • 🛡️
    Lemon Shield
    No punishments, no challenges for 24 hours.
  • 🍽️
    Lemonade Upgrade
    Dinner at the best-rated restaurant in town.
  • Sweet Spot Stay
    One night at the best-rated RV park nearby.
  • 🧳
    Tourist Treat
    Pick one attraction or experience you normally wouldn't splurge on.
  • Luxury Coffee Stop
    Today is a fancy coffee shop stop, no matter the cost.

Explore the Route

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